Re: CO2 Lasers for CNC Machines

Typically the laser is not moved by itself. Usually the work piece is moved X-Y and the lens system positioned vertically. The
laser tube is then positioned sideways, a few feet away, and the beam is turned 90 degrees down with a mirror into the lens.
The lens can then be moved up and down to focus the spot on the work piece.

Mirror servos are normally only used for engraving applications on relative small work pieces, not regular laser machining.

Bertho Boman
=============================================

> From: MIADsgns@...
>
> -----------> snip
> I am still hoping that a compact CO2 laser unit can be bought to retrofit a
> CNC type machine. I am not sure though if the CO2 laser head would be
> mounted on the CNC machine instead of the router head or if it may be
> necessary to use servo driven mirrors to direct the beam, similar to how
> Stereo Lithography Machines move the laser beam and keep the laser head
> stationary.
>
> Anyone else with CO2 laser experience please jump in. This is a very
> interesting topic and I know there are others out there with similar
> interests that would benefit from this discussion.
>
> Mario
>
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